Wolff reveals ambitions for Antonelli's Mercedes debut

To replace Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes decided to make a very strong choice. Rather than trusting experienced drivers, like Carlos Sainz, the German team relied on one of its greatest promises. At only 18 years old, Kimi Antonelli will be launched into the deep end of Formula 1 alongside George Russell. Asked to comment on this decision, Toto Wolff accepted this choice while asking for time for his pilot in comments transcribed by Motorcyclesports : “The boy is 18, very talented, but of course has to adapt and will make mistakes. That's why we do it. We see 2025 as a year of transition and want to prepare it for 2026.”

“We manage expectations” assures Wolff

The Mercedes director therefore believes that it will take time for Antonelli to climb among the best. However, he thinks it is the best decision: “By warning all our shareholders not to believe that good test results would simply translate into racing performance, we are managing expectations,” Mercedes is instead banking on 2026 and the entry into force of the new regulations to return to the top.

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